Marathon Pace Teams?

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2008-10-24 1:52 PM

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Subject: Marathon Pace Teams?
I am looking at running a marathon again after a 4 year break, and was considering running with one of the pace groups (probably in the 3:15-3:30 range). I am interested in others experiences with them. Also what I could expect from both the social and pacing aspects?

2008-10-24 2:17 PM
in reply to: #1764502

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Subject: RE: Marathon Pace Teams?
There was a pretty good article about pace teams in a recent issue of Runner's World.
2008-10-24 2:27 PM
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Subject: RE: Marathon Pace Teams?
My personal experience with pace teams has not been so great.  They are usually faster than they say.
2008-10-24 2:34 PM
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Subject: RE: Marathon Pace Teams?
I used the pace group to great effect at the Austin Marathon last year. Based on the course profile, my own personal strategy was to start out a little below my goal pace and then pick it up over the last 8-9 miles.

I started with the 3:40 pace group and we were pretty much right on time, since the pacer was wearing a Garmin. There was definitely something to be said for the mental aspect of having the group to run with. At the 16-mile mark, I said thanks and picked up my pace.

I'm going to try to hang with the 3:20 group this year.
2008-10-24 2:37 PM
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Subject: RE: Marathon Pace Teams?

The only marathon I participate in that has them is Baltimore and they are very good about hitting their marks closely.  I have never actually run the whole thing with them as I usually break off at some point, but it was a little crowded and sketchy at water stops.  and since I usually walk a couple steps at the water stations to make sure I get fluids in, I am better on my own.

But if someone has trouble pacing themself, they are a great resource for keeping things in check.

2008-10-24 3:02 PM
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Subject: RE: Marathon Pace Teams?
I just completed my first Half Marathon and wish I had run with a pace group.  I was shooting for a 1:45 time and missed by 3 minutes.  A friend of mine ran with the 1:40 pace group and came in at 1:41.  He was very happy with the experience and suggested that without the pace group he would not have hit his goal.

2008-10-24 3:48 PM
in reply to: #1764567

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Subject: RE: Marathon Pace Teams?
Offthegrid - 2008-10-24 2:17 PM

There was a pretty good article about pace teams in a recent issue of Runner's World.


That was a pretty good read, thanks!
2008-10-24 3:52 PM
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Subject: RE: Marathon Pace Teams?
Recently ran the Detroit Half Marathon and stayed with a pace group.  Don't think I would have met my goals had I not done that. 
2008-10-24 3:59 PM
in reply to: #1764502

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Minnesota
Subject: RE: Marathon Pace Teams?
I liked the idea of running with a group, but a friend had a not-so-good experience with a pace team a number of years ago. The pace was pretty inconsistent and I guess they really had to haul butt the last few miles . Most missed their goal time.

It is good to know that many of you had good experiences. The popularity of marathons and pace teams means they are probably have it down pretty good. I will definitely have to check out the Clif Pacing Team at my next marathon.

Thanks for the info everybody
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